The federal government has called on local refineries to ensure that the sulphur content in their refined Petroleum products remains within permissible limits. This was emphasised by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lokpobiri, at a summit organised by the Crude Oil Refineries Owners Association of Nigeria (CORAN) in Lagos. He underscored the necessity of following global standards, particularly the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) regulations, which stipulate that the sulphur levels in processed petroleum must remain below 50 parts per million (ppm).
He emphasised the importance of adhering to this sulphur limit to ensure regional and international environmental regulations compliance. Through its initiatives, the government seeks to encourage the integration of cleaner Technology within the refining industry. The minister also pointed out that refineries must enforce more rigorous environmental practices and robust Waste Management strategies, reflecting the nation’s dedication to reaching net-zero Emissions by 2060. In a wider perspective, the minister elaborated on the government’s current initiatives to combat crude Oil Theft and illicit refining practices within the nation.
Minister forms global emergency task force to find refining solutions.
To confront these problems, the Ministry of Petroleum Resources formed a global emergency task force to identify domestic solutions to refining challenges faced in the country. As revealed by Lokpobiri, this committee’s major suggestion is to implement crude oil refining technology, which is identified as a practical approach for local refinement initiatives. The minister indicated that the government is eager to partner with CORAN and various industry players to realise this proposal. Looking ahead, the Nigerian government is committed to enhancing the nation’s oil refining abilities to make it a major contender in Africa’s refining sector.
Lokpobiri disclosed that the government seeks partnerships with nearby countries within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) framework. This initiative aims to develop collaborative refinery projects and create regional energy markets that support energy efficiency and sustainable practices throughout the continent. These efforts are essential for the nation’s Economic Development and energy stability. He presented a comprehensive plan to establish the nation as a leading refining centre in Africa. He further noted that this goal would require enhanced diplomatic efforts to boost collaboration among neighbouring countries, establish a conducive regulatory environment, and promote technological advancements in the sector.
Heineken urged investors to seize the available opportunities in refining.
Additionally, the administration aims to prioritise Environmental Sustainability and encourage the growth of local content. He is convinced that these initiatives will enhance the nation’s position in the international refining sector, promote job creation, generate more income, and reduce the dependency on imported refined goods. The minister called on Investors to take advantage of the opportunity available in the region’s refining industry. He emphasised the government’s revitalised efforts to establish a supportive ecosystem for refinery expansion and expressed optimism that targeted investments would address the current refining deficiencies.
This appeal emphasises the administration’s dedication to cultivating a favourable environment for investors while striving to enhance the nation’s refining capabilities. Heineken Lokpobiri recognised the value of insights from industry participants, reassuring them of the government’s willingness to embrace their recommendations. He pointed out that contributions from the CORAN summit would be considered to enhance and advance policies to strengthen the nation’s refinery initiatives. He stressed that this cooperative strategy is essential for ensuring growth in the refining industry, positively impacting the whole Economy and surrounding regions.
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On the other hand, the federal government is making considerable efforts to upgrade the refining sector through the Ministry of Petroleum Resources. By implementing rigorous environmental regulations, promoting collaboration among regions, and attracting domestic and international investments, the country seeks to establish itself as a prominent contender in Africa’s refining landscape. This initiative supports worldwide Sustainability goals while ensuring the nation optimises its economic capabilities through refining operations. Therefore, investors and stakeholders are highly recommended to participate in this initiative as the nation strives for economic development and energy stability.